Bellissima Productions presents ALICE OF HEARTS

THE BASICS: Bellissima Productions presents Alice By Heart — July 18-21 and July 25-28 at the Allendale Theatre, 203 Allen St. Buffalo, NY 14201, for tickets — bellissimaproductions or 716-218-8530

THUMBNAIL SKETCH: Alice by Heart is a musical comedy by Duncan Sheik, Steven Sater and Jessie Nelson set in London during the Blitz of World War II. The story follows 15-year-old Alice Spencer and her best friend Alfred as they hide in an underground tube station to escape the rubble and bombs. When Alfred falls ill with tuberculosis and is quarantined, Alice tells him the story of Alice in Wonderland to comfort him. In desperation, she encourages him to escape with her into the book and travel to Wonderland. This is not a play for children. The content warning includes sexual references, depiction of violence and drug use.

DURATION: 2 hours – including a 15-minute intermission

THE PLAYERS, THE PLAY AND THE PRODUCTION:

Alice By Heart has music and lyrics by the same team who wrote the award-winning play Spring Awakening. The book is by Jessie Nelson, co-writer of Waitress. The musical was originally performed at London’s Royal National Theatre in 2012. It’s a powerful show that could have done with a little more imagination.

Director Nicolette Navarro has succeeded in staging this ambitious undertaking. Her work is both specific and innovative, and the wild tea party was refreshing and surprisingly physical. The choreographer is Mia LaMarco, who also designed the sets and costumes, which beautifully evoke the 1940s. Most of the musical numbers are not so much dances as stage movements used with imagination, and the choreography for the caterpillar song is a real treat!

Musical direction is provided by Patrick Towey and Phoebe Herreid, who lead an impressive 7-piece orchestra. The balance between orchestra and singers sometimes tipped in favor of the orchestra, making it difficult to understand the lyrics. Acoustics, however, are often a problem at the Allendale Theatre.

In the demanding lead role of Alice, Madeline Rehm is beautiful and pure, with gorgeous singing and the appropriate air of a young girl entering adulthood and desperately trying to make sense of a time when “the world has lost its mind.”

Quinn McGillion stars opposite Ms. Rehm as Alfred and the White Rabbit. Mr. McGillion also has an exceptional singing voice. It must be a challenge to play a character who belts out a ballad while dying of tuberculosis, but he handles it well and his duet with Alice in the second act is a highlight of the production and a welcome relief from all the anguish on stage.

The supporting cast are also all good singers and give their all to the production: Sophie Houseman, Matt Giangreco, Aaron Saldana, Megan Mahaney, Oliver Ball, Emily Sellitto, Brian Cunningham, Rowan G, Bennett Goldberg and Corbin Bryant.

I want to go back for a moment to something that happened while I was watching this show. This has happened recently at other shows around town, and even at Arties. After every musical number, the audience member sitting behind me yelled in my ear. WNYers, yelling is not good theater etiquette. If you are sitting next to or behind someone, be respectful and find another way to express your enjoyment of the performances. Thank you!

That being said, Bellissima Productions’ Alice By Heart is a real success. The staging is both rigorous and creative, there is a wonderful energy on stage and this production is musically strong.

BUFFALO HERD SCORING SYSTEM

FIVE BUFFALO: A show that appeals to everyone! This production is pure theatrical magic that will please everyone. No theater experience is necessary. From hilarious comedy to heartwarming drama, this show offers an unforgettable shared experience. You will laugh, be touched or amazed (depending on the genre). Grab your tickets before they are gone!

FOUR BUFFALO: Highly recommended! This production offers high-quality entertainment. It may have a solid storyline and exceptional performances. While it may not be for everyone, theatre lovers and those interested in the style, themes or genre will certainly be delighted. Gather your friends or make an appointment – ​​you won’t be disappointed that you went!

THREE BUFFALO: A solid night! This solid production and an enjoyable night at the theater. This is a solid choice for a night out. Go and check it out if you can!

TWO BUFFALO: Intriguing! This production may not be to everyone’s taste. However, if you are feeling adventurous and want to forge your own theatrical path, this production offers a unique experience. While it may have some minor imperfections, if the genre, themes, and style match your interests, you should definitely attend!

ONE BUFFALO: If you like theater… While this show may not be for everyone, it offers a stimulating and thought-provoking experience. Traditional theatergoers may have a hard time following it. While it will undoubtedly spark conversation, consider the genre, themes, and style before attending.